Charas addiction: a stronger form of cannabis
चरस (हशीश) की लत
Charas (hashish, "hash") is resin collected from the cannabis plant. It is more concentrated than ganja, so the effects on the mind are stronger.
Young people who use high-potency cannabis daily have a clearly higher risk of psychotic illness.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Daily smoking mixed with tobacco
- Feeling paranoid, anxious or detached after use
- Memory lapses, poor motivation, social withdrawal
Causes
- Peer use, travel and party settings
- Using to cope with stress, boredom or sleep problems
Risk factors
- Adolescent onset and daily use
- Family history of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder
Signs of dependence
- Strong craving and difficulty controlling the amount
- Needing more for the same effect (tolerance)
- Continuing despite harm to health, money or family
- Needing charas to relax or feel normal
Withdrawal symptoms
- Irritability, anger, anxiety and restlessness
- Poor sleep and vivid dreams, reduced appetite
- Usually peaks in the first week and settles over 2–4 weeks
Health consequences
- Psychosis (suspiciousness, hearing voices), especially with heavy use or high-potency forms
- Poor memory, concentration and motivation; falling academic or work performance
- Anxiety, panic and depression; lung irritation when smoked with tobacco
- Road accidents when driving intoxicated
- Nicotine dependence from mixing with tobacco
Relapse prevention
- Identify triggers — people, places, stress, celebrations, payday — and plan for them
- Continue medicines and follow-up even after feeling better
- Replace old routines: exercise, work, religious or social activities
- A slip is not failure — contact the doctor early rather than hiding it
How it is diagnosed
- History of use and any psychotic or mood symptoms
- Urine drug screen when useful
Classification: ICD-10 F12 · ICD-11 6C41
Treatment options
- 1Motivational counselling and a quit plan
- 2Short-term medicines for sleep or anxiety during withdrawal, if needed
- 3Treatment of psychosis, depression or anxiety if present
- 4Help to quit tobacco at the same time when possible
Psychotherapy and counselling
- CBT and motivational enhancement therapy
- Relapse-prevention counselling
Guidance for family
- Talk when the person is sober; express concern without insults or threats
- Do not give money that may be used for drugs; avoid covering up consequences
- Do not try home detox or lock the person in a room — seek medical help
- Look after your own health; family counselling helps everyone
When to see a psychiatrist
- Paranoia or voices persisting after use stops — urgent
- Inability to stop despite trying
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Free self-assessment
A short screening in Hindi or English. Private — nothing is saved. Screening does not establish a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Is charas stronger than ganja?
Usually yes — it contains more THC, the chemical linked to dependence and psychosis.
Can de-addiction treatment be done online?
Assessment, medicines, counselling and follow-up can often be done by video. People with severe withdrawal, other serious illness or no support at home may need admission at a local hospital — you will be guided.
Will my treatment be kept confidential?
Yes. Your consultation and records are confidential. Seeking treatment for addiction is a health decision.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.